Thank You to Our Staff Volunteers
The communal garden for Sandpiper and Kingfisher close residents was left unused for a long while, and the residents were keen to get the garden back in use again.
Through a staff volunteering scheme, South Essex Homes staff, Axis, ATF, and residents came together on the 26th of March to remove the rotting shed and clear the extra waste within the area. On the day, spirits were kept high throughout, with some volunteers and residents taking a breather to enjoy the ATF seated exercise classes happening in the main hall.
Fantastic results were achieved from the first visit, and the residents are pleased with the results so far. One resident said: Wow didn't think you'd get so much done; it looks fantastic . It was an amazing effort from everyone involved and the residents are already looking forward to getting the garden completed with ideas being mentioned of the potential clubs and summer events with can boost the spirits within the community.
We are looking at coming back to carry on the great work on Thursday 21st May (very soon as you're reading this!) and would love to have more residents come down. If you would like more information, please contact the resident engagement team on residentengagement@seh.southend.gov.uk.
Staff volunteers and residents have also been working together to transform the summer house in the Chaucer House garden into a dedicated sensory space for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) needs. Now known as Calm Cottage, the space has been shaped by resident feedback to make sure it feels safe, welcoming, and fun for everyone who uses it.
The outside of the cottage has been refreshed with a picket fence and nature-inspired designs of flowers, bees and butterflies, helping to create a calm and inviting feel before you even step inside. The interior has been completely transformed into a bright, engaging space filled with comfort, colour and lots of imagination.
Inside, the room will be filled with toys, sensory items and games to support children to play, explore and enjoy themselves. A soft rainbow sensory mat will bring gentle lighting effects to the space, along with interactive toys and activities designed to make it fun and engaging for all ages and abilities.
We're really pleased that so many families have helped shape the idea for Calm Cottage. As a thank you, we'll be inviting those who contributed to join us in May for the official opening, where they'll also get a first look at how their feedback has helped bring the space to life.
